Transitioning to Adulthood brings new responsibilities, and for Young Adults with Disabilities, this often includes Self-Advocacy. Managing your own Supports, Medical team, and Social connections can feel daunting but is an essential step in gaining Independence. Balancing these responsibilities with finding Employment or pursuing your goals adds another layer of complexity.
This Journey can be challenging, but it’s an opportunity to build confidence, shape your future, and take control of your life. With the right Resources, Support and determination, Young Adults with Disabilities can navigate this transition and thrive in their unique path to Adulthood.
Useful Resources:
- Dating with a Disability
- Overcome challenges of funding SDA
- Story of Eliza turning 18
- CP Diaries Episode 7: Employment with Liz
- CP Diaries Episode 6: Making connections in the Disability Community with Andrew
- Up Movement UK Self Advocacy
Real Stories, Real Voices
We share stories from young people in our Community navigating life beyond 18—finding Independence, making choices, and shaping their own paths. You’ll find honest reflections and everyday moments that show there’s no single way to grow up with CP.
A CPSN client Brenton is a volunteer, athlete, and advocate. Brenton has achieved remarkable milestones, including co-authoring a research paper, winning the 2024 Boroondara Citizen of the Year award and advising on inclusive design projects. “It has been very challenging for me to accept my disability, but I am happy with who I am. My CP does not stop me from being part of my community.” Read more of Brenton's story here.
Michaela Fernando is a passionate photographer, concert-lover, and recent social media marketing graduate. As both a CPSN client and event photographer at our Family Day at the Zoo, Michaela brings a unique perspective to every moment she captures.
Living with Cerebral Palsy, Michaela says the right support, especially from her CPSN team has helped her focus on what she loves, from food photography to live music and gaming. She’s a strong advocate for person-centred, flexible support that evolves as people do.
“My advice to young people transitioning into Adulthood is stay true to yourself and your passions. It’s okay to feel lost sometimes—everyone’s journey is different. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and surround yourself with a support system you can lean on. With the right people beside you, you can keep reaching for your goals.”
Want to hear more from Michaela? Read her full blog where she shares her journey, passions, and reflections on life with CP here.
More stories from our Community:
- Marianne and Kiera go Surfing
- Paz paralympian
- Story of Eliza turning 18
- A NEUROSCIENTIST AND POET NOT LETTING CEREBRAL PALSY GET IN HER WAY
- Client Spotlight on Brenton: "You Can Do It!"
Get connected
Join the CPSN Community for opportunities to connect with other Young Adults with CP in social gatherings and peer-to-peer mentoring youth activities and events in our Young Adult groups (OASIS).
Join the CPSN Community
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